The Intellectual Life

Hamerton uses the word 'intellectual' in the circa 1870's European sense. With careful attention to that word and the 19th century authorship, this book's subject matter itself is perhaps the best book of its kind. For those intellectuals seeking guidance or mentors who seeking guidance for their mentees Hamerton's elegant writing style is a delight for all those who are so intrigued. Hamerton wrote several other equally prescient books. Hamerton presents his thesis and personal concern using many short stories about the experience of his friends, acquaintances, and his own life. These individuals had very different beginnings in life yet found themselves on similar trajectories. Many if not most of us might (have) find this book life-changing if read seriously while young. However it is edifying at any age. Hamerton gently reminds us throughout life is short and smart people amidst their dreams often overestimate what they can do in a lifetime. Hence they often make a mess in subsequent shortfalls. As a good example of someone avoiding this consequence of haste in living thoughtfully, Hamerton recounts the wisdom of his father's approach to life. As he used the male pronoun Hamerton throughout, note he writes for both genders (if you read carefully) explaining British culture ( 1873) did not recognize female intellectualism. Hence few young women were able to get support for such an orientation. Hamerton clearly observes there was no reason why women could not seek development of a higher intellect. Several of his stories were about young women. On the topic of the welfare of unmarried men, who as men found it easier to develop as intellectuals in 1873 circa Britain, he laments their frustration with finding suitable marriage prospects. These few women would understand and accept their husbands' psychology and be undaunted by their often uncommon personalities. He notes the unliklihood of this type of match might lead to poor alternative choices. Happily for Hamerton he did find just the right woman although late in life.